A Study on Visual Elements of Creatures that Enhance Immersion in 3DCG Expression

Abstract

Recent photorealistic 3DCG games highlight creature design as a key challenge. Unlike human models, fictional creatures lack established academic methodologies. This study investigated how photorealistic creatures affect immersion, proposing eight visual hypotheses. Ethnographic interviews with seven gamers, analyzed via KH Coder, revealed that users subconsciously perceive visual elements, enhancing immersion—particularly designs implying “strength.” Multiple elements combined further increased immersion. Findings confirmed: 1) visual elements correlate with immersion, 2) creature design cognition fosters immersion, and 3) realism and reduced unnaturalness are critical. These insights will guide experimental stimuli design.